CONCENTRATION

CHRISTIAN

D.

LARSON

^ESZSHESS?
1
Brandeis University

Library

i
The
Gift of

San Antonio Chapter

CONCENTRATION
BY

CHRISTIAN

D.

LARSON

NEW YORK

THOMAS

Y.

CROWELL COMPANY
PUBLISHERS

Copyright, 1920

BY
Christian D. Larson

CONCENTRATION

THE
pects;

art of concentration

is

one

of the simplest to learn, and

one of the greatest when mastered; and these pages are written especially for those

who wish

to learn

how
as-

to master this fine art in all of

its

who wish
;

to develop the

power

to

concentrate well at any time and for any

purpose
mind.

who wish

to

make

real concen-

tration a

permanent acquisition of the

may

Whatever your work or your purpose be, a good concentration is indisIt

is

pensable.

necessary

to

apply,

upon the object or

subject at hand, the

[i]

30:

Concentration
full

power of thought and

desire, or
in view.
is

talent

if

you

are to secure, with a certainty, the results you you have

win the one thing But the art of con-

centration

not only a leading factor in

the fields of achievement and realization;

it
is

also a leading factor in an-

other
bility.

field

field

of untold possi-

The
tion
is

exceptional value of concentra-

recognized universally; and

to

still

there are comparatively few that really

know how

concentrate.

Some of

these have a natural aptitude for con-

centrated thought and action, while others

have improved themselves remarkas yet the

is

ably in this direction, due to increased

knowledge on the subject; but

psychology of concentration
derstood generally; and that

not un-

is

why

the

majority have not developed this great

[2]

Concentration
art,

although they are deeply desirous of

so.

doing
ceed,

When we
we

do not know

how

to pro-

either hesitate or proceed in a

we may proceed under the guidance of a number of misleading beliefs. And in connection with
bungling fashion; or,
concentration there
are
several ideas

have interfered greatly with the development of this art. In

beliefs that
fact, methods have been given out, and published broadcast, that are supposed

and

to develop concentration, but that pro-

duce the very opposite effect. These things, however, clear up when we learn the psychology of the subject.
find

these misleading beliefs we one of the most prevalent to be that we must, in order to concentrate

Among

well,

become oblivious

to everything but

the one thing before attention

now; but

[3]

Concentration

when we become oblivious to our surroundings we do not concentrate at all; we have simply buried
the fact
is

that

ourselves in abstraction, which

reverse of concentration.

is

the

highly active

The mind is and thoroughly alive when

we

ciently alive

perfectly; and suffiand keen to be aware of everything in the mind and all about the mind, although giving first thought and

concentrate

attention to the

work

in

hand.
that

Another

belief

is this,

we must
in

use great force in the

mind
is,

order

to concentrate well; that

literally

we must
attention

compel the mind to

fix

but here

upon the object or subject before it; we must note that forced action,
although seemingly effective for a while,
is
is

detrimental in the long run.

true of the

This

body as well as of the mind, so that we must find a better

[4]

Concentration

method.
no special

real secret of concentration

effort
is

However, when we learn the we find that

required; there
is

neither mental strain nor hard

work

con-

nected with the process; the mind be-

comes well poised and serene; and, in that attitude, full power and capacity is applied where attention is directed. The mind that concentrates well does not work in the commonplace sense of that term; wear and tear have been eliminated; there is no strenuous action; there is no desire to force or drive things through; and no tendency whatever towards the high strung or keyed up condition. On the contrary, all action is smooth, orderly, easy and harmonious; and work has become a keen pleasure. This we can fully appreciate

when we
tion, the

learn that, in real concentra-

mind has gained that

peculiar

[5]

Concentration
faculty

open

all

through which it can at will the avenues of energy in such a

way

that all those energies flow into

one stream; and that stream flows into the one place where work is going on now. Therefore, it is not a matter of

main force, but a matter of knowledge; knowing how and where to open the
gates of energy in the mental world.

When we
concentration,

study the psychology of

we

find that

most of our
only acted

previous beliefs on the subject will have

to be discarded.
as obstacles;

They have

and

as those obstacles

have

prevented the development of real concentration, another obstacle has arisen

in

suggestion
all.

nearly every mind

the

that of adverse

most detrimental of
feeling the

Briefly, the majority,

lack of concentration, continue to think

and

speak

of

this

factor

as

weak.

[6]

Concentration

They
are

continue to suggest to themselves,

ignorantly and unintentionally, that they

very poor in concentration;

and

therefore they hold this factor

in a perpetual state of

down

weakness. No mental faculty or power can develop to any extent so long as we think or speak
of that faculty as

weak or

inferior.

Adcir-

verse suggestion acts as a blight, and

must not be permitted under any

cumstance.
as

We

should think as

little

possible

about
that

our

When we know
weakness,
ther.

weak we have a
of

points.

certain
it

we need not speak

fur-

To
is

dwell mentally upon weak-

and weakness cannot develop strength. Therefore, we will not think or say,* again and again,
ness
to live mentally in weakness;
live

they

who

mentally

in

that
that

we we

are unable to concentrate, or are

weak or

inferior in any re-

[7]

Concentration
spect whatever.

We

will eliminate all

manner
will not

of

adverse

suggestion.
can.

will think

and say that we

We We

complain that we concentrate

poorly, but

we

will

proceed to train our-

selves to concentrate wonderfully.

[8]

2*- '**&*- jrf-+. Time -

Z? 7>Z<2

i^e

CONCENTRATION
may

in

general

be defined as an active state

of mind wherein the whole of

attention, with all available energy
talent,
is

and
con-

being applied upon the one

thing that

we

are doing now.

We

centrate in the full

meaning of the term

when we

give ourselves completely to

the thought or the action of the present

moment; and this is true whether we work with muscle, brain or mind, or
express
ourselves

through

thoughts,

words or emotion.

The

principle of concentration

is

to

do one thing at a time, and to do that one thing with all the talent and power we possess. We literally turn on the full current of mental and personal energy

not only

the full current of

what

[9]

Concentration

but
pose

we may

feel

on the surface of thought

all

that

we can
It

arouse in deeper
a leading pur-

consciousness,

and bring forth from the

is

greater self within.

in

cencentration to lay hold

upon

deeper and greater possibility; for

the

we

are not giving our whole best self to

hand unless we apply all the life, energy and talent that we can through super-effort awaken and develop now.

work

in

this may be accomplished we understand clearly as we proceed with our analysis of the many phases of

How

will

the subject; and

the

we

will discover that

power to concentrate well means vastly more and involves vastly more than most minds ever imagined. Although the general purpose of
is

this art

to

give undivided attention to the

in

work

hand, the development of that

[IO]

Concentration

purpose will presently lead us beyond

this point,

and we

will enter a

new

field;

we will discover in concentration a new power and a marvelous possibility. There are many things that we may
expect to accomplish through concentration;

and

in

order that

which
ments.

familiar with this art

is

we may become from every aspect

its

velopment we will consider briefly the most important of these accomplishFirst of all

necessary to

highest de-

we

gain the power

to hold attention

upon any object or

subject for a sufficient length of time to

power

complete the work in hand, and the to do this at any time and under

This is vitally immeet distractions at every turn, and must learn to give our work undivided attention whatever our
any circumstances.
portant as

we

all

surroundings

may

be.

en]

Concentration

When we

concentrate well

we may,
work
to-

at will, cause all the available energies

of mind and personality to

gether, with full capacity,
in

upon the work

This will increase remarkably working capacity and the dependable the endurance of both mind and body, and
hand.
will
tery.

mean

a high degree of

mental mas-

To be

able to master the elements

sufficiently to

and energies of the mind

bring them
all

togther to

anywhere any time this is an advantage for which we would pay almost any price but it comes as a natural emolument with the development of concen;

work together

tration.

We
and

all

appreciate the value of speed,

especially

among

the thinking pro-

The mind that cesses of the mind. moves slowly is never brilliant; while the mind that can think and act with

[12]

Concentration
lightning rapidity
is

on the verge of

at-

taining genius; and

of genius in this
It is

may reach the goal way if depth and range

are combined with the element of speed.

not possible, however, to produce

mental speed through forced action; it comes naturally through concentration;

and it will mean more work and better work; more perfect plans and more brilliant ideas a combination that will go very far towards the high goal we have

in view.

You
action;

are equal to any occasion

when

the whole of your

mind

is

called into

very thing concentraMore than tion has the power to do. that, the whole of the mind will be
this

and

called to higher ground, thereby

ing

itself

out of

mediocrity
that

workand restate

stricted channels,

and gradually devel-

oping

itself

into

wonder

[13]

Concentration

where everything seems

concentration

possible.

Real

can

lead

whole mind
tion

will follow;

the way; the and concentra-

invariably

leads

into

worlds of
concentrate

greater results.
well

When we
we

we

exercise a peculiar influence over

create, in every part

the whole mind;

of the mind, an irresistible desire to go

to

work; and we

inspire every element

of the mind with a definite ambition to

excel.

The
only to

act of concentration tends not

apply effectively

all

available

energy of mind and personality; but

tends also to

draw

forth latent energies.

a remarkable force

The

fact

is

that real concentration be-

comes
used

in the

of attraction

mind

attracting to itself un-

and

latent

energies

sources in the mental world.

from all That is

one reason

why

the

mind that concen-

[14]

Concentration

becomes so powerful, and why such a mind will invariably forge ahead, regardless of what the obstacles
trates well

or

difficulties

may
is

be.

It

is

now

known

fact that the subconscious supply

of latent energy

enormous; and as

concentration tends to attract latent en-

ergy from

all

sources,

we

perceive here

assume tremendous proportions. Concentrated action will grow into greater action, and upon the
possibilities

that

principle that "much gathers " nothing succeeds like success "

more"; " make

expert use of

what you have and Nature

your supply."
is

will bountifully increase

All things in

stream because the main stream going somewhere concentrating

life

flow into the main

its

movements upon
lem, and
if

a definite goal.

Concentrate the mind upon any prob-

you concentrate wonderfully

[15]

'***//**

>

& **&6eJ

Concentration
well,

you

will find the solution.

The

problem is locked up in that problem; and concentration is the

solution of any

key.
a

The psychology

of this involves
sufficient

most fascinating study; but

stage of our study to

in this

these things can be done.

is

know that The same

cir-

true of any subject, situation or

cumstance.
side
facts

You

can,

through concenin-

tration, find the

main points or the

of any subject or situation

consider.

Real concentration has the power to break through the shell; to get beneath the surface; to get in behind the scenes; to enter into the very life of the thing, and thus get hold
of bed-rock information.

that you

may

These things we may accomplish through concentration and there is good reason therefore why it has always been
;

[16]

Concentration

looked upon as the master art; but there is one thing more, the greatest of them
all.

Mental

action,

when
go

perfectly con-

centrated,

tends

to
life,

farther

and

farther into the

ciple

substance or prin-

that

is

acted upon at the time.

Concentration
tendency

develops

a to

penetrating
lead
the
into the

tendency
the usual

mind out of
unknown.
It

and on

Concentration forges ahead.

It

goes straight on.

does not tarry

goes
farther.

with

known

facts.

It

and such a journey will invariably prove a journey of discovery. The mind will find and
It sets out

upon

a journey;

enter

new

fields

of thought.
will

New

laws

and principles

be discovered.

new

region of possibility will open beto light.

Positively,

fore the mind, and long sought secrets

may come

we

can,

[17]

Concentration

through a highly developed concentration, cause Nature to give up her secrets, and cause the mysteries of Life to be revealed.

[18]

WHEN

we

realize

what may
shall

be accomplished through concentration,

we

make

every conceivable effort to develop this

master art; and our persistence, determination and enthusiasm will know neither pause nor measure; we will purpose positively to learn how to concentrate,

and therefore

to proceed what principles to adopt and what methods to apply. When we examine the psychology of concentration, we find that it is based upon mental actions that are deeply in-

how

will

want

to

know

terested in a certain subject or object; that

is,

we

concentrate naturally and

without effort whenever or wherever

are vitally interested.
first principle.

we
the

This then

is

Be

really interested in

[19]

Concentration
that to which you are to address yourself,

and you

will give

it

your undivided
is

attention.

The problem, however,

come
jects that

how

to be-

really interested in subjects or ob-

on their own account, do not, on the surface, appeal to us in the least. This is the first and possibly the greatest obstacle we have to meet in the develop-

do

not,

attract our attention; or that

ment of concentration; but the solution is very simple; and we proceed upon
the fact that everything
is

interesting

from a

certain

point of view
its

that
if

everything can attract our attention

permitted to reveal

chief attraction.

To

the superficial

mind many things

may seem
think.
It

useless or uninteresting; but

not so to the

mind

that has learned to

from

is only on the surface, or commonplace viewpoint, that

[20]

Concentration

most things may seem unworthy of passing notice; and it is only when looked upon through the eyes of prejudice or
ignorance that our associations

may

re-

pel or produce indifference, or that life

and

its

work may

offer

slight appeal.

The

situation changes entirely

when we

see things as they are;

and especially

when we seek

for the deeper cause of

every condition, and discover the greater

possibilities that are

awaiting back of
object in ex-

the scenes everywhere.

The most commonplace

istence, such as a simple

rock or a turf,

becomes
life,

scientifically;

will
ties

wonder-world when examined and the ordinary duties of if examined from all points of view, reveal opportunities and possibilia

that will positively startle the mind.

certainly true that

It is

everything

is

interesting

from

a certain point of view,

[21]

Concentration

and we may multiply

definitely.

illustrations
all

inits

The

universe in

of

realities; life in all of its manifestations;

and existence
changes
into,

in all of its actions

and
in-

these

things,

when looked
prove

with eyes that

a

see, will

teresting to

frequently
degree.

fascinating

wonderful degree, and to an amazing

ject,

Understanding this aspect of the subwhich is the all important aspect,

the

we may make
tion
:

following proposiinterested.

We

concentrate naturally and pervitally

fectly

when we are

Everything is, in its chief attraction, extremely interesting. Therefore, we may, by seeking the chief attraction in
everything,

concentrate

naturally

perfectly anywhere any time.

and This is

simple and conclusive, provided

the chief attraction; but

we find here we meet

[22]

Concentration
another problem.
everything
is

We
is it

may

grant that
a certain

interesting

from

point of view, but

possible to find

that interesting viewpoint anywhere and

on short notice?
It is true that

we

can, in

due time,

of

find

elements of real interest anywhere

sufficient

interest

to

attract our

undivided attention; but

ways do so

at the

we may not almoment; therefore

to solve;
is

we have another problem

again, the solution

simple

and
It

within

easy reach of any one

is

who

will try.

only necessary at

first

to proceed
is

upon

the conviction that everything

interest-

ing from certain points of view; and to

drill that fact into the

tive action

mind with posiand depth of thought. A

situation will arise that can solve this

other problem absolutely.

When

you convince the mind that

[23]

Concentration
everything
is

interesting

from

a certain

point of view, you establish, in the subconscious, a natural tendency to be on

the alert for this interesting viewpoint.

Your mind
failingly,

will,

unconsciously and unele-

look for the interesting

you meet in life, or that you may take up for consideration. And when the mind is on the alert, and
in everything

ment

keenly looking for the interesting

ele-

ment, the mind

in the situation

is

really interested in

that subject or object.

Vital interest

sciously,
effort to

has sprung up subconwithout your making the least

become
first

interested.

So there
vital essen-

you have the

tial

and most

for concentration.

The importance
so
great,
it

of this principle

is

and the methods connected

with

are so effective, that

we should

emphasize and reemphasize these things

[24]

Concentration

our minds in every way conceivable. should think on these things repeatedly; dwell upon this situation with
in

We

the utmost of faith and confidence; and

give

special

time and thought to the

facts involved.

nearly every
terest in a

There is a tendency in mind to take natural infew things only; to work and
and to think of most general and superfiBut real concentration is
in

act largely in grooves,

things in the
cial fashion.

out of the question

such a state of
attention

mind;

that

is

why

special

should be given to the facts under consideration, so that the tendency of indifference may be supplanted by one of whole-hearted interest.

In practical
will

life this is

how

the plan

work.

attention to

upon to give something you do not underare called

You

stand, or something that does not ap-

[25]

Concentration
peal to you in the least.
interested,

You

are not

the

and therefore you cannot, at moment, concentrate properly, or

the

give

matter

undivided
everything

attention.

But you remember the great fact noted

in this study, that
is

interest-

from a certain point of view. Instantly you become curious to know what the interesting element in the matYou have made ter in hand might be. curious; and a curious your own mind mind is on the verge of becoming an
ing
interested mind.
If this be your first attempt in the

application

of

this

method,

nothing

more than

mild interest may arise; and even that might aid you decidedly at the time; but suppose you make use of this
a

method many times every day for weeks and months. Suppose you make it a part of your daily work to impress upon

[26]

Concentration

/iyour mind,
everything

again and again, the fact that

is

interesting

from

a certain

point of view.

The

subconscious will

soon receive these impressions and make that fact its very own. Then suppose

you are called upon to consider a subject towards which you have been wholly indifferent. But the subconscious has been advised that there are elements of interest everywhere, and the subconscious never forgets really learned.
will be

what

it

has once

Accordingly, the mind

prompted, by powerful impulses

in

from
ments

within, to seek the interesting ele-

the subject before you; and,

fact,

before you are hardly aware of the

this subject

has become

interesting and

attractive.

Suddenly, a keen desire has

to look into this subject to

come over you

thoroughly.

You want

know.

You

are vitally interested.

You

are giving

[27]

Concentration
the matter undivided
attention.

You

are concentrating perfectly in that direction.

When
to

it

becomes

a part of

your mind

know and

feel that there are interest-

ing

elements in everything,

and that
eyes

everything,

when looked upon with

that see, becomes a wonder-world, you

develop a permanent faculty for looking into the vital elements in

all things.

You

are interested, deeply and perma-

workings and possibilities of all aspects of life you are wonderfully attracted to the real and the true everywhere; and therefore you will instantly, and without effort, give your whole attention to anything that you may meet, or that you are called upon to consider. Wherever you think and act, you do so with your whole mind; you concentrate
nently, in the
;

perfectly, not because

you are trying to

[28]

Concentration

do

so,

but because you have developed

that something in yourself that produces

perfect concentration.

[29]

TO
manent

develop this idea farther, and

all

secure

possible results,
it

we

should make

one of the per-

meet everything its real worth and chief points of interest and whether the element of interest be found or not,
rules of life to

with the desire to discover

the act of looking for that element will create interest in the mind, thereby pro-

ducing a certain degree of concentration.

Whether we meet
the
exceptional,
rigidly observed;

the

commonplace or
rule

this

should be
the

and whenever we have

moments

to spare

we should apply

rule definitely to any subject or object

at hand, so that the

mind may develop

in
illustrate,

permanent and a powerful tendency

that direction.

To

we may

[30]

Concentration
take an ordinary looking rock and ask

what there is about this rock in which we may become interested. We would ask what this rock is comourselves

posed
are

contain,

how many elements it may how they combine, how they attracted to each other and how they
of,

to hold together. We might proceed asking questions, and we would

happen

find that
fifty to

we could ask anywhere from one hundred very interesting and

about this very

most

scientific questions

ordinary looking rock; and every one of

those questions would arouse the deepest
interest in the

mind because they would

be questions that would involve some of

the greatest principles in science.

The same method may

ject

be applied

in

connection with any object or any sub-

we may wish to consider; and every instance we shall be surprised [31]

in

to

Concentration
find

how many
The

points of interest will

come forth
the mind.

to attract

and even amaze

is,

truth

that

if

we

are

wide awake to the meaning and purpose

of everything in existence, we shall not find anything to be commonplace or uninteresting.

What

appears to be unin-

teresting appears so simply because

we
in-

have not taken the time to make an

telligent

examination.

The

moment,

however, that we really examine the thing itself, and look into its elements,
its

nature,

its

qualities, its
its
is

powers,

its

possibilities

and

very

soul,

we

shall

find so

much

that

interesting that

we

might occupy the mind for days, weeks and months in a deeper and further
examination.
shall find nothing to be of greater value as a daily practice than to take up objects or subjects, in which we are not

We

[32]

Concentration
actually interested,

and direct the mind

in

to look for interesting viewpoints, ele-

ments
richly

or

factors

connection

with

those objects or subjects.

We

shall be

rewarded, because we will not

only find
will,

much

that

is

interesting, but

we

through this practice, train the mind to look naturally for that which is of interest everywhere; and we know that there is nothing that adds so much to our fund of knowledge as the happy faculty of being able to look for facts, or for the truth everywhere; and the

same

faculty tends to develop, not only

intellect,

but

all

the finer mental facul-

ties as well.

This practice will produce a permanent tendency in the mind to look for the
interesting in connection with everything

that

we may
this

see,

or hear, or think about

and

tendency will expand and de-

[33]

Concentration
velop the mind, and place us
tion
in a position

to secure direct or first-hand informa-

from every experience and from we meet on More than this, the same the way. tendency will develop in the mind the
every object or subject that
faculty of searching for the chief essentials,

or the real thing, that invariably

exists in the actual life or soul af that

with which
hardly

we come
to

in contact;

and

it is

possible

over-estimate

the

value of such a faculty, knowing as

the surface continually,

we
if

do that the average mind skims over

and seldom,

ever, discovers the real, vital principle

involved anywhere.

When we

develop

the faculty of finding the real thing, the

real truth, the real principle, the real

power, the real factors that exist in everything we meet in life, we have
gained immensely.

[34]

Concentration

seem

Whenever we meet what does not interesting, we should proceed at

in-

once to examine that particular thing

with a view of finding something of

terest;

and we will find it. And when we have work that does not seem interesting work upon which we must concentrate in order to do it well we should take up such work in the same

attitude;

that

is,

we should
is in

inquire

deeply and scientifically as to what there

is

about such work that

reality in-

teresting.

This

question
to

will cause the

mind

coming up, become interested;

and

at

once concentration will begin.

And

as

we

continue this practice, the

tendency to look for the interesting everywhere will become second nature; that is, concentration will have become a permanent power in the mind, and will act thoroughly and effectively of itself,

[35]

Concentration

wherever the mind may proceed to

act.

The

rule

is

simple:

Look

for the in-

and the mind becomes interested; and wherever the mind is interested, there you concentrate naturally and effectively; provided, of course, that you subconsciously feel that there are
teresting,

interesting elements in everything; and, provided further, that your mind is keenly alive with the desire to know, to

achieve, to excel.

[36]

A
of the

MOST
tion
is

important

essential

in

the development of concentrato learn to control the

actions of the
actions,

mind

all

the leading

both objective and subjective;

this

and although
for in fact

may seem
it is

to de a

diffi-

cult undertaking,

really quite simple,

we

exercise this

power almost

hourly to some degree.

experienced

We

all

have

moments when

the forces

mind seemed to be under perfect control when it seemed as if we could jnove those forces, in any mode or man-

ner desired, just as

we move our hands

analyze

or

feet.

And when we
we

our

states

of

mind during such moments,

are in deeper or closer

we

find that

touch with the finer forces of mind and

personality

that

is

the

secret.

To

[37]

Concentration
acquire
the
art of

entering into

this

closer touch therefore

must be our puris

pose; and to begin,

that prepares the
state of mind.

it

deeper feeling

way

for that desired

Whenever we proceed to concentrate, we should try and deepen the feeling of

all

we

thought and all mental action in fact, should try and feel so deeply about
;

everything that

we

think or do that the

into the under-

mind

actually enters into the very spirit

is,

of the process; that

currents of mental
rents that determine

life,

those finer curin

results

every-

when concentrating

may, in a superficial manner, secure some slight results temporais

thing that

being done.

We

rily, but it is those deeper, finer, more penetrating currents that produce real

results,

to

and that alone have the capacity produce extraordinary results. Be-

[38]

Concentration
sides,
finer
it
is

the consciousness of those

currents that gives the

mind

the

power
all

to exercise complete control over

the actions and forces of the mental /

world
tion.

an attainment
find
it

that

is

most im-

portant in the development of concentra-

You may
ing; but

problem

at times

to enter into this state of deeper feel-

you can, by giving

special atsit-

tention to the principle, master this

uation absolutely; and the secret will be

comparing the two ways of When you listen to music and remain in a superficial state, you are simply aware of pleasing sound, However, if you are but nothing more.
found
in

listening to music.

deeper state of mind at the time, wherein you can appreciate the very soul
in a

of music, you will not simply hear pleasing sound, but infinitely more.

Every

[39]

Concentration
tone of that music will actually thrill
the atoms of your being,
feelings in

and arouse

mind and
possibly

soul that are so

deep, so lofty and so beautiful that you

describe them. your entire being would be alive with the deepest and finest and most sacred emotions, and the experi-

could

not

Briefly stated,

ence would be such that

possibly years.

its effect

would

remain with you for weeks, months and

This

illustrates

what happens when

life,

we meet

experiences, or anything in

in the attitude

of deeper and finer states

such
times

of mind.

At

we do not

simply discern the surface of things, or

come
very
soul.

in

mental contact merely with the

outer meaning;
life

we

actually discern the

of things, and come in mental

contact with the very

kingdom of the
invariably enter

We

find that

we

[40]

Concentration
into this
live

every

deeper feeling when we try to act, thought or experience that

may appear in our world; and the reason why is found in the fact that whenever we try to live anything, we enter
into the very life of that particular thing.

To

develop the tendency to enter the

deeper states of the mind, we should work in harmony with a leading law in the mental world; that is, the peculiar
proneness of the mind to produce within
itself

any

state,

condition or tendency

that

we

continue to desire with persistis

ence and sincerity, fit

the truth

u that\
if

('your mind will do anything for you you really want it done.

^J

When we make

it

our purpose to

enter into deeper states of feeling in

connection with every thought and action, the

mind

will

soon develop a tendall

ency that will invariably take

men-

[41]

Concentration
tal action into

To

deeper states of feeling. encourage the mind in this connec-

most excellent practice, whenever we hear good music, to look for the soul of music, to try and
tion,

we

shall find

it

feel the finer

touch of the real

life

of

music, and to try to appreciate the most

delicate
spirit

harmonies that
itself.
it

exist in the

very

of music

We

shall find

an excellent practice

to apply the same principle in connection with anything that is beautiful, or anything that may appeal to the mind as be-

ing worthy of our deepest and highest

attention; and in fact, whatever we may be thinking about, we should try and enter into the very soul of the thought In this manner, we will or the theme.

develop a natural desire to seek for the real, to enter into the depths of life,

thought and feeling; and gradually con-

03

Concentration
sciousness will deepen
until
all

of

its

activities

we

in every

find we can feel more deeply thought or experience; and we

shall also find that the conscious

domain

has been increased remarkably.

We
the

shall find

it

profitable to apply

same

principle to every aspect of

physical sensation, and to every experiIf we make it ence of the sense life. our aim, not to be satisfied with the grosser side of physical sensation, but try to discern and feel the finer elements

that are invariably expressed through

all

forms of sensation, we
ifind

shall not only

every sensation more delightful than before, but also that it has been lifted
to a higher plane

that grossness

crudeness have disappeared,

and and that

the physical body, as a whole, has be-

come more
manner.

refined in every

form and

[43]

Concentration

These

exercises

and experiences

will

tend directly to prepare the

way

for the

development of those states of mind that we must possess in order to enter into this closer and finer touch with the higher and finer forces of the mind a most important essential in the art of controlling all the actions of the mind; for we know that when we have gained
perfect control over
the mind, then
all

the actions of

we

shall be able to con-

centrate all the energy

we possess upon any object or subject we may have in

view.
the surface; to

The purpose must be to live beneath make the great within

We

life and concern. upon and with the external aspects of life; but we must make the

our chief realm of

may

act

deeper

fields

of thought our real place

of business.

For surely

if

we would

[44]

Concentration

master the deeper forces of life, we must live and think where those forces arise and develop. (This, therefore, is a mat
ter of imperative importance.

[45]

AN
effect in the

indispensable element is that of a good strong will; and the

use of the will in connection

with concentration
variously; but

may

be illustrated

we

will first

examine the

of will power, correctly applied,

process of thought creation.

To

you have several facts concerning a proposed invention, but have not as yet succeeded
illustrate,

we

will suppose that

in

bringing those facts together in the

If

combination required for the perfecting

you understand the use of the will, you will apply will power upon that group of facts, knowing that you thereby increase mental activity in that particular part of the mind; and wherever mental activity is inof that invention.
creased, there the creative process
is in-

[46]

Concentration
tensified

and expressd

to a higher

and

more

perfect degree.

The

fact

is this,

an idea may seem indistinct, although you know you have all the elements required, the reason is
that whenever

that the

mind

is

not sufficiently active in

idea.

connection with the creative process that

is

working to perfect that

will,

The

use of the

however, will not only

increase activity throughout this creative

process, but will also

more when

perfect, because the

make concentration power of will,

the

applied in connection with concenincreases

tration,

invariably both

power and

the capacity of the force of

concentration.

You

will find

it

possible to perfect al-

most any idea you have in mind, if you can bring to bear upon that idea all the available energy existing in your mind; and this may be accomplished through

[47]

Concentration
concentration, provided concentration
is

deeply expressed, and in a positive manner

results

full action

of the

fully apply

we may secure through the will. For when we the will, we increase power

and

activity.

We

intensify the process

is

involved; and there

nothing that tends

more

directly to increase the

power of

concentration than the act of increasing the rapidity of action wherever concentration
\

may

be taking place.
in

We

all

appreciate the value of bril-

liant ideas;

and most minds are

position to create brilliant ideas at fre-

quent intervals, but as a rule they merely come up to the point of creating a brilliant idea they do not quite reach the point itself. The reason is that they have not the power to bring to;

gether

all
;

the elements required for this

new

idea

and

this

power

is

lacking be-

[48]

Concentration
cause the will
tion

weak and concentraThe same is true reundeveloped.

is

garding

the

perfecting

of

plans

or

methods.
or
all

We

may have

the essentials,

the factors required, but

we may

not always have the power to bring them

together to a focus, where the required

combination can be brought about so as to evolve the idea or plan we desire.

The

use of the will, however, in this

connection will produce remarkable results. The will always intensifies any mental process, and thereby tends to bring to a climax any creative process The that may be going on in the mind. creation of rich and valuable thought may be furthered in the same manner, because such thought is almost invari-

ably the result of the bringing together,

in the

impressions that

proper combination, of the best may have come into

[49]

Concentration
the

mind through our own study or

ex-

perience.

Regarding the psychological use of

the power of thought, we shall find the same principle of exceptional value, because whenever we use the power of thought, whether for the overcoming of

physical ailments, for the elimination of

adverse mental states, or for the build-

wherever we of thought

ing up of character or mental faculties

may

apply the power

is

a perfect concentration

indispensable; and the use of the will in

connection with concentration invariably

tends to increase both the force and the
capacity of the process.

In fact,

never can concentrate with all that are unless we express through concentration, the full

we we

express the full

power of the power of the

will.

To

will,

ever, every action of the will

howmust be

[50]

Concentration
positive,
will must act subjecmust act through the undercurrents, or through the attitude
tively; that
is,

and the
it

feeling the importance of which we have previously considered. We understand therefore that if we would learn to concentrate well we must also acquire a thorough knowledge of the will, and develop the will to the

of

finer

highest possible degree.

[51]

THE
is

power of
invaluable

persistent desire

wherever

in-

creased results are wanted; and therefore the full force of desire must
invariably combine with concentration.

When we
view,

desire persistently the object in

we become deeply interested in that object and we cause the whole mind to work for its realization. Besides,
the element of desire will instill a some-

thing into concentration that

alive.

is

really

It will eliminate the

tendency to

make mental
ical

or personal actions mechan-

or forced, and will give to every ac-

tion that vital spark that

means

so much.

The

force of desire will also deepen and

expand every mental process involved a situation that may, at times, become the opening way to remarkable results.

[52]

Concentration

To
direct

concentrate successfully

we must
creative

and

focalize

all

the

energies of the

mind upon
but

the object

of

concentration;
first

these

energies
is

where becomes invaluable. Wherever we turn on the full current of persistent desire, every energy and force in the mind becomes alive, and may be enlisted for good work in any place where the power of concentration has been dibe aroused; and here
real desire
rected.

must

We

find

therefore

that

the

force of desire becomes a direct and

powerful aid to concentration in two particulars; first, by creating wide-awake interest all through the
distinct

mind

by causing

the

mind

to

become

vitally interested in the goal in view;

and second, by arousing, or making alive, the latent or dormant energies of the
mind, thereby providing the process of

[53]

Concentration
concentration with a vast amount of additional power.

All of this

we understand

perfectly;

and the more we investigate the psychology of the process, the more reasons we find why we always get what we want when we want it " real bad." The secret then is to want what you\

want with
is

all

the life and

power there /

in you.

We

can reach any goal, or

realize any ideal

perfectly,

when we concentrate
full

and with the

force of a

perfect
desire

concentration;

and persistent

proceeds to give concentration

the two chief essen-

more and more of

tials;

that

is,

deeper mental interest and

greater mental power.

In this connection inquiry
to the best

may

arise as

methods for creating this deeper and more persistent desire, especially where we may not be person-

[54]

Concentration
ally interested in the final results; but

here

we should remember
right.

that

we always
is

gain personally from anything that

done
Oriental

If

we develop we

greater

power through the use of any

gain to that ex-

psychological law,
tent,

even though the greater portion of

elsewhere.

the tangible results may, in this instance,

go

The

future

is

long;

every form of gain will come to each

in a very short due time time if we take advantage of every opportunity to increase our own capacity and power. We should therefore be

one of us

in

interested, personally, in the best

and

most thorough use of every psychological law we may have the privilege to
employ.
Realizing this fact,

we

will

want

to

desire success, the greatest possible success,

for every enterprise with which

[55

Concentration

Such a desire will improve remarkably, not only our

connected.

we may be

own

concentration, but also

talents

all

other

powers and

we may

possess.

Our own

gain therefore will be strictly

personal, and
tangible gain
positively will

most

direct;

and although
it

may

not come at once,

in the

come

near future.

The

future

is

those

who improve

both larger and richer for themselves in the

present; and greater opportunities are

waiting everywhere for greater minds;

but improvements must be genuine, not merely superficial.

To
sire in

increase the

power of

desire

we

should deepen and intensify

the fact that the

all

such de-

every form and manner, realizing

mind acts in a certain direction the greater becomes its power to act still more in the same
the
direction.

more

The

force of desire there-

[56]

Concentration
fore

come immense.

may through this simple rule And the more we

bein-

crease the force of desire the

more we
cause

increase results in every field of thought

or action.
act

Furthermore, we

may

the forces of concentration and desire to

and react upon each other to great

is,

advantage; that
while desire
the

the

trate for the increase of desire

the

more we concenworth more powerful and

persistent will such desire

become; and

more deeply we more

life,

concentrate well
the

wonderfully well
we
ex-

desire the

power

to

energy and action

press in the building of real concentration.

[57]

THE
remained
ties,

greatest

faculty of

all
it

is
is

that of imagination; but

the least understood, due principally to the fact that

in

most minds have grooves of thought, and

therefore have not given extensive attention to their

own

creative possibili-

the richest and most numerous of

exist in the fields of imagination.

which
talent,

In the development of any

power or

however, these creative possibilities must receive direct and scientific attention; and this is especially true with regard to the power of concentration.
Besides,

some of

the functions of concen-

tration are so closely related to those of

imagination as to seem almost identical.

When

you

employ the

faculty

of
is

imagination, one of your chief objects

[58]

Concentration
to bring together ideas or mental images

with a view of creating some new or

greater idea; and in concentration this
11

bringing

together "

tendency
clearly

this

uniting the
object
in

many
that
will

in one, is the It
is

leading
evident

view.
a

therefore

better

training
increase

of
the

imagination

largely

power of concentration. When you employ the

gether the

faculty

of

imagination, you also tend to bring to-

many

creative energies of the

in

mind, combining those energies

tention
at

the
at-

one process to which you are giving

the
time.

highly

de-

veloped faculty of imagination therefore

naturally becomes an invaluable aid to
the

power of concentration; and when

concentration can,

we understand how

by working with imagination, bring together, into one powerful line of mental

[59]

Concentration
action, all the best ideas of the
all

available creative

mind and energy, we know

a

why we

usually find an excellent imagin-

ation wherever
concentration.

we

find

remarkable
find

Analyzing the subject farther, we

that a
vivid,

well-trained imagination tends to " light up " the entire mental

world;

or,

in
in
is,

other words,
the

to

make
clear.

everything

mind more

The

result

that the idea or object

upon which we concentrate becomes more distinct; and accordingly, we not

only concentrate better, but the entire

mind becomes
account of
ness.
its

interested in this idea

on

vividness and distinctivecall into action the

Thus we

many

aspects of mental attention, an action

that increases directly and instantane-

ously the
all

power of concentration.
experience

We

know through

how much

[60]

Concentration

we which we
better

can think

when

the ideas with

are dealing are vivid, or stand

out clearly in the mind; and also

how

much better we can concentrate when we have a distinct mental picture of the
object
in

view.

And

imagination,

if

well trained and scientifically applied,

will invariably turn the light

upon any

idea that

we may

call

up for examinais

tion or further development.

When

imagination

vivid,

every

mental process will be literally

surrounded with
appreciate
this will

filled

and

light; and we all can what an immense advantage

in the practical application

be

of concentration.
call

To

illustrate,

we

will

imagination into action wherever

to concentrate,

we wish

and immediately

that place or process in the

mind

will

become so
clearly,

vivid,
all

that

and stand out so our faculties will be-

come

interested.

The

entire

mind

will

[61]

Concentration
turn
its

attention towards the point of

concentration; and in a
tire

moment

the en-

mind

will concentrate.

And when
for the

we have

the whole

mind working

object in view, the results desired will

positively be realized.

As

a practical suggestion

we

should,

whenever we begin
ceed to imagine

to concentrate, pro-

all

the forces of the

mind coming
concentration.

to a focus at the point of

This simple rule will not only produce some startling results
in

the process of concentration

itself,

but will also train imagination for

nite

defi-

and practical work.

Herewith,

let

us note that imagination does have the

power
world;

to take the lead in the mental

and

therefore

whenever

we

imagine that a certain thing is being done in the mind, we lead a majority of
the energies of the

mind

to

go and do

[62]

Concentration
that very thing; provided of course that

imagination be vivid and highly positive

in
its

actions.

Here then we have

within easy reach a most remarkable

possibility.

[6 3

TO

concentrate well

is

not sufconcen-

ficient;

we must

also

trate with the greatest possible

capacity; and therefore,

we should

train

ourselves to concentrate with the whole mind; or to express more and more of life and power in every thought and acBut the average mind makes acttion. ual use of only a small fraction of what is possible in ability and power; and that is one reason why the concentrated
efforts of such a

mind are
is

so

weak or

utterly futile.

Where
perfect,
in

concentration
find

we always

weak and immost of the mind

and
vice

dormant

state;
is

versa,

where concentration
find
tal

exceptional,

we
to

marked
world.

activity all

through the menthen

is

The problem [6 4 ]

Concentration

awaken more of the mind, and express more of the power of the mind in everything we do a problem that would largely solve itself if we would aban- \ don completely all half-hearted modes ) of thought and action. We should make it a practice to ex-

press the whole self in everything

capacity

we

do,

think or say; and the increase in mental

would

be

remarkable.

We

should eliminate indifference absolutely.

Whether we turn to the left or to the right, we should turn with all we have in feeling, purpose and will. Wherever we act, we should be a power, and aim conto make all action constructive

ducive to greater capacity for action to-

morrow. There is no gain in saving up power for another day. If we use it all now, we will have still more when the The power that is other day arrives.

[6 S

Concentration

used to-day not used

in

generated

in the

system to-day should be

scattered

but used
expression.

constructive
that the

And

the law

is,

more power we
shall

use to-day, the

more we

have

to-

morrow.

When we

think,

we should not simply

but think with

think with the

brain,

every force and element in the entire

personality.

There

is

nothing that will

increase mental capacity so quickly

so effectively as the training of the

to use the

and mind
the

whole personality

in

every

thought and expression.

And when

mind
scious

can, in concentration,

draw upon

the entire personality for power, con-

and subconscious, we can imagine

principal
object,

what
be.

the force of such concentration will

Our

therefore,

should be

in this connection to

the vast regions of

awaken dormant energy all

[66]

Concentration

more and more of everything we do.

concentration

through the mental world, and express this new energy in Thus we provide
with

an

ever-increasing

measure of power. A most excellent

express

practice, in order to

more of

the
is

mind

in

every

thought and action,

all

to lay hold

the energy of the

upon mind with deep

and actually take up take up a book with the hand, and place it where we want it now. This can readily be done and with practice we will find that we can control our mental energies just as
feeling
will,

and

that energy as

we would

effectively as

we

control the

movements
is

of hands or feet.

When

this control

gained

we

shall be able, at

any time, to

increase the expression of the

power of
the

mind,

thereby

increasing

directly

power of concentration; and when we

[6 7

Concentration
realize that even exceptional
less

minds use

than

five

per cent of their latent

possibilities.

energies,

we

gain some idea of the vast-

ness of our

own

To

further this increase

in

mental

capacity,

we should

give definite and fre-

quent directions to the subconscious for

this particular purpose.
is

In fact, there

nothing that will avail so much for

such a purpose, which fact

appreciate
conscious

we can readily when we note what the suband what

it
it

is,

can do.

We
to

should make
fore
to

a daily practice there-

direct

the

subconscious

awaken the whole mind, and

in constructive action, the full

to express,

power and Remarkable increase will be realized, as the weeks pass, both in working capacity and in
capacity of the mind.

thinking power.

Then we should proceed

farther and

[68]

Concentration
direct the subconscious to develop

and

perfect
shall be
this

concentration

amazed

at

itself; and we what can be done in

regard.

We

know

that the sub-

conscious

can do anything within the

range of

human

possibility, if

properly

directed; therefore the creative

power
all

of the great within can build for us

concentration conceivable.
velous

the most effective and the most perfect

This mar-

power

is

latent in every

mind

waiting to be used with intelligence,

super-effort

and real

faith.

[6 9

IN
ality

the science and art of concentrait is

tion,

the deeper forces and the

finer energies of

mind and persondeal directly; and

with which

we

therefore

we

increase the

power of

con-

centration as

we

acquire the ability to

take up or control those forces at will,

and according

to our purpose or desire.

this,

To

accomplish

we must

gain

in-

terior hold of those forces, because they

do not respond to any action of mind or will that is merely superficial. And
here

we

find

another reason

why

it

is

only the few

it is

who

really can concentrate

only the few

who

think deeply and

who
of

cause the actions of the m'tad to

the powerful undercurrents thought and mentality; but any
this

work among
life,

one can acquire

power and the

;

first

[70]

Concentration
step towards that end
is

to gain this

interior hold of the finer energies of the

mind.

When we

can take hold of the forces

of the mental world, and direct or sway

way desired, just as we sway or extend the arm in any mode or direction desired when we can do this, then we are beginning to acquire^_
those forces in any

the
/

power of

real concentration.

This
/

inner mastery of the forces and energies

of the mind,
cess,

is

a purely subjective pro-

developed only as we learn to act consciously and positively in what we inlLy^eTrrr-"ttie ^ inner field" oT~

and

is

thought, consciousness and mind action.

And
field,

although there are

act, to

many who can

power

and do

some

extent, in this inner

the majority can acquire this

only through extensive practice.

The

value of this power, even aside

[71]

Concentration

from that of concentration,

is

very-

great, especially in connection with the

creation of effective and brilliant ideas;

for the fact

is,

that

it is

only in this

in-

ner

field

of mind and thought that

are

bril-

liant

ideas

created;

and

besides,

every mental creative process of genuine

worth depends

directly

of these finer energies.

upon the action If we would de-

velop the real power of concentration,

therefore, and also master the art of

think and act in the consciousness of the " inner field " of mentality, and gain, more
creating brilliant ideas,

we must

and more, this interior hold upon the forces of mind and personality. To advance in this direction, we should endeavor frequently to take up and apply the deeper forces of the mental

system; that

is,

to take positive hold

will, di-

of those forces with mind and

[72]

Concentration
recting them first upon one sphere in the mental world, then upon some other sphere; to move those forces to and fro
as
in

we may
circles

desire

to cause

them
in

to

move

one

moment and

straight

lines, either

towards the depths or the

heights of the mental world, the next

moment;
or
in

to gather

them

in large

groups

small groups according to desire;

to focalize

them

all

upon any

subject or

idea

long

we have in mind, and we can continue such

to see

how
or

focalization

without losing interest

in the subject

becoming oblivious

to our surroundings.

And

here we should remember that the moment we lose interest in the subject before us, that moment we cease to concentrate; and also, that the moment we
to our surroundings,

become oblivious
that

moment we

cease to concentrate.

Concentration involves, on the one

[73]

Concentration
hand, undivided attention to the subject
or object before us; and, on the other

hand,

complete

everything going
roundings.

to wide-awakeness on among our sur-

The moment we become

is

oblivious to our surroundings, the real

power of concentration
time being;
it

lost for the

is

very important there-

fore that we continue to be wide-awake, both to the objective and to the subjective; in fact, in as

wide and deep and

large a sphere as possible.

To

gain this interior hold upon the

it

deeper forces of the mind,

is

con-

power desired; and every imaginable method should be employed, because the more ways through which we can handle, sway or manipulate those forces, the greater will become our conscious hold upon those forces; and when this continuous practice that will give the

[74]

Concentration
scious hold

becomes remarkable, then

we

can apply those forces anywhere at

any time, and with full capacity and In other words, we shall be power.
able to concentrate perfectly, and turn on the full current of all the talent, energy and power we possess.

An
tion

excellent practice

is

to turn atten-

frequently upon the great within,

the vast and marvelous posexist
in

concentrating the deeper forces of the

mind upon
sibilities

that

the

fathomless

depths

of

the

mental

world.

This
re-

practice will not only aid the

mind

markably in gaining this interior hold upon the finer energies, but will also awaken latent forces and new talents; and will invariably arouse increased capacity and power in every faculty and talent we may be using now. When we find that the faculties and

[75]

Concentration
talents
ficient

we employ do

not possess suf-

force and capacity to

make

that

work a success, it is most important that we take up the above practice and do so
and enthusiasm. soon experience most marked improvement; the mental engine will have more " steam," and we shall be able to speed on with twice and thrice the usual cargo of plans, propositions and achievements. Furthermore, this practice will enlarge immensely the field for concentration; and here it is importwith
determination

We

will

ant to

remember

that the greater the

scope and range of the mental world, of

which we are actively conscious, the greater becomes the power of concentration. Every faculty or power in the mind gains exceptional advantages when given more and more to work with; and

the practice of concentrating frequently

[76]

Concentration

upon the great within

faculty

will give every

more

to

work

with, besides giv-

ing the mind, as a whole, an ever-increasing world for attainment and achieve-

ment.

[77]

THE
all

possibilities

of

concentrais

tion are

many; but there

to

one

possibility in particular that

we

understand most thoroughly, and develop to the highest degree conceivable. The results will be amazing; and every step in advance will
should
seek

open new worlds to conquer.

The

principle

is

this,

that

through concentration clear the almost any achievement, attainment or discovery within the range of human life and power; and this range is a thousand times greater than we have supposed; in fact, no limits or restrictions can be
found.

we can way for

This principle can be applied to almost anything that we may wish to find or accomplish; and for practical illus-

[78]

Concentration

we will consider first the problems we meet in daily life. It is the usual custom, when we have difficult
tration

problems

to

solve,

to

waste

vast

amount of time and energy worrying about how we are to find the solution; and as we know this is an easy way to failure and defeat.

The new way

is

to

concentrate; to
all

concentrate upon the problem with

the energy and intellect
this
is

we

possess; and

what will happen: The full light of the mind will be focused upon that problem; that problem will be
placed under the penetrating gaze of a

powerful mental search light; and, accordingly, the mind will be able to look into and look through the entire situation. Thus the solution will be found;
for the fact
is,

that situations or prob-

lems seem

difficult

or perplexing only

[79]

Concentration

when viewed
light.

in the

dark or

in

subdued

When we

can look through the

to do.

thing, then

we know what
sufficient light

and all mysProblems cease to be tery disappears. problems when viewed in the clear light; and we can, through a highly developed
concentration, turn the full light of the

Turn on

mind upon any

situation.

subject, circumstance or

Therefore,

we should

con-

upon those things; concentrate with all the energy and intellect we
centrate

possess; concentrate for days or weeks,

if

necessary, and with unflinching faith

and

determination.

We

will

soon
is

penetrate the mystery and find what

wanted.

We will see through

it all,

and

see clearly

what to do. The same principle will apply if you Do are working on some invention.

not give up at any stage; concentrate

[80]

Concentration

upon the thing you wish

to develop or

more and more persistence until the thing is done. Nothing is impossible. Nature will
perfect; and concentrate with

give up her secrets to those

who
will

really

want them, or

to those

who

come

into her greater realms

and get them;

and concentration has the penetrating power to go on in anywhere. It is a well known fact that most inventions have come through persistent
concentration; or through mental processes

that

involved

lightning

speed

creative

power; and such processes are

Furthermore,
sim-

always due to previous moments of exceptional concentration.

the possibilities of the

mind become

ply marvelous
full creative

when the full light and the power of the mind are con-

centrated upon the goal in view.

realize

We
inven-

therefore

that

greater

[81]

Concentration
tions than the

world has ever dreamed

to

of

may

be expected when a much larger

number learn
Inventive

master

the

wonder

working art of concentration.

among other things, the power to create new ideas; and we can realize that the more intellect and energy we apply in any creative process the greater and more brilgenius
involves,
liant will that idea

become.
all

We

also

realize that
ties

when we apply

our facul-

and forces upon the creation of an

if

idea or the perfecting of an invention,

the results will be far greater than

we

applied only a fraction of those fac-

ulties

and

forces.

And

it is

the function

of concentration to apply, upon the

in

work

power of the mind and the highest and most effective actions of
hand, the
full

that power.

Rich things grow where producing

[82]

Concentration

power is abundant; and the producing power of the mind at any point will be abundant in profusion when we concentrate the best that we have and the best that we are upon that point. And to
emphasize
that the
persistent
this
fact, let

us note again

power of concentration when

and highly developed, will not all the talents and forces of

only cause
the

work together at the point awaken latent energies in mind and personality sometimes an enormous amount of new ento

mind

of action, but will also

until you feel as if you were a dynamo. When you are in need of a new plan in your business, or in your field of endeavor, do not consult all the people you know, the majority of whom may

ergy

living

not be really interested.

old way, and
it

That

is

the

leads to confusion.

The

[8 3

Concentration

new way
greatest

upon the plan you want, and with the highest and
is

to concentrate

actions

of

the

mind.

Thus

you cause the highest and greatest in your mind to go to work and evolve the plan you desire. They can do it; and if you concentrate exceptionally well, you will cause those actions to make a super-effort the result of which will go far beyond your every expectation. Here you should note well the fact that your own mind has the power, active or latent, to work out any plan you may require for your best welfare and continued progress. Nothing is more true than this, that your own mind is

fully able to take the very best care of

This is a statement that should be shouted from the house tops, and drilled so thoroughly into every human brain that it becomes a positive and ever
you.

[8 4

Concentration
conscious realization.

can solve your problems and

Your own mind work out

the plans that you need for advance-

and your work. And your own mind will do these things if you concentrate persistently upon that which you want, and concentrate won-

ment

in

your

life

derfully well.

A
field

large and valued field for the ap-

plication of the

same

principle,
in this

is

the

of ideals.

And

connection

we should
that

consider well the great fact

in-

whenever the mind gains the

it

sight to perceive an ideal

also gains

the
it is

power

to

make

that ideal real.

But

centration that this

effectively.

only through a well developed conpower can be applied

majority,

The among those who

however, entertain high ideals, do not give sufficient thought to concenThey dream and dream, hoptration.

[8 5

Concentration
ing the

dream

will

come

true; or,

when

they do try to concentrate, they journey

off into

abstractions and transcendental

speculations

a process that does not

call into action the

power that

is

able to

make those dreams come true. The same is true of young minds who are ambitious. Most of them
merely hope and hope that their ambitions will be realized

somehow; but they do not concentrate persistently and continually upon the great goal they have
view.

in

They do

not call into con-

certed and organized action the sumtotal of their forces

in

and
is

faculties; and,

consequence,

their
fact

ambitions never
that

materialize.

The
fifty

where one
of

ambitious mind scales the

achievement,
to

heights

give up their early

ambitions after a few years and decide

resume an average existence; and the

[86]

Concentration
chief reason
is,

that these fifty do not

if

concentrate; or,
it is

they do concentrate,

only for a time and in a weak, unfashion.

certain

The

successful
full

one,

however, turns on the

concentration,

current of

and persists, with undaunted faith and determination, until

is

the goal in view

realized.

This should be the rule: Whatever you want, concentrate; concentrate upon the purpose you have in mind; concentrate upon those greater forces and possibilities within you that can get you what you want that can see you

through successfully.
tively true that

For

it

is

posi-

your own mind can get you anything within reason; provided of course that your whole mind is working for you; and your whole mind will work for you will work for you with

the highest

degree of effectiveness

[8 7

Concentration
if

you concentrate wonderfully

well.

The

possibilities of concentration are

fields

not confined, however, to the usual

of achievement, or to those mental do-

mains with which most of us are familiar. There are other and greater worlds that we may discover and take possession of through the use of this master art. To illustrate, if we wish to evolve or develop something that is entirely new, or decidedly different, the
principle
tion.
is

to concentrate in that direcshall

Thus we

make

a super-ef-

fort in that direction; that

is, if

we

con-

centrate with full

capacity and marvel-

ous

skill;

and we

will,

with absolute cer-

tainty,

yond
that
class
is

develop something that is besomething all previous effort

distinctive, that stands out in a

by itself, that reveals clearly the master touch of genius.

[88]

Concentration

The

elements of genius are latent in

every mind; and any mind may, through

the super-efforts of a marvelous concentration, call those elements together into

positive,

creative

action.

Thus somedeveloped.
brilliant idea

thing
It

new

or startling

may be

may

be a

new and most

certain
;

or, a

new and
of
in life

superior plan for the re-

alization

highly

desired

changes

or,

and methods, which when applied, might revolutionize everything in that sphere of

of doing things

ways

an entirely new

way

human

thought or endeavor.

The most wonderful

is

possibility of all

this,

that concentration can lead the

on, out of present restric-

mind on and
tions

and beyond present states of knowledge and consciousness, into new realms, richer kingdoms and greater
worlds.

We

know that [8 9 ]

concentration

Concentration
does have the tendency to go farther;

and that
so that
it

it

has real penetrating power,

delve into anything in the

may

vast domains of Life,

It
is

Mind
to
to

or Nature.

possible

therefore

cause

the

power of concentration

go so far into any state of reality that new and marvelous domains will open before the mind. Thus we might find long sought
secrets in the natural world,

or

make

discoveries in any field or region that

would prove amazing

invaluable to

to the

mind and

human

progress.

It is the positive truth that a highly

developed concentration can carry the mind farther and deeper in any direction. This is something that the great

minds of every age have demonstrated And if we go deeper or repeatedly. farther into Life, into Mind, into Nature,

we

are going to

make

discoveries.

[90]

Concentration

We

are going to find secrets that no

mind has known before. We are going to meet forces, laws and principles, the knowledge of which may reduce to simplicity a
ities.

thousand so-called impossibil-

We are going to discern the inner

workings of things in many fields and regions, and thus secure information that wise men have sought all through
the ages.

These things are not exaggerations nor the mere picturing of a highly stimulated imagination; for

when we
in

accept

the fact that concentration can lead the

which
we
plish

mind farther and deeper

fact

any direction
this

we

all

accept absolutely

realize that

we may, through
is,

use of concentration, discover or accom-

almost anything; that

if

we

carry on the process far enough.

It is

a matter therefore of deciding to con-

[91]

Concentration
centrate until

we

find or secure

what we
as
ex-

want.

The outcome

will

be

pected; for in due time

learn

we

shall

meet
shall

the great and the wonderful;

we

remarkable power can open to the mind regions beyond rethis

how

gions of untold possibility.

Here then is food for thought whatever our work may be, or whatever our Here we have fields of study may be.
promises rich and rare for those
aspire to excel; for those

who

who

are look-

ing for

new worlds

to conquer; for those

who

are in search of the deeper secrets And as we give of life everywhere. thoughtful attention to these things, we

perceive most keenly that

we

are ever

on the brink of wonders and marvels with the power to go on into those fabulous regions and take possession.

To

the practical

mind

it

is

clearly

[92]

Concentration
evident that
if

we
all

train the
essential

mind
lines,

thor-

oughly

along

and

learn to concentrate wonderfully well, we are going to move forward steadily

surely, gaining capacity, power and speed as we proceed. And if we continue in this manner, we will not only accomplish what we have in view, but we

and

may

at any time strike a

new

trail lead-

ing directly and quickly to the highest pinnacle of achievement.

To

the

mind of

ideals,

and to

all

who
it

have faith

in greater possibilities,

is

equally evident that a well trained

mind

can, through a highly developed concentration, take a charmed journey into Nature's wonder world with the posi-

tive assurance that

something of untold

value will be found.

ize

that the

possibilities

For when we realmind holds marvels and far beyond what we ever

[93]

Concentration

dreamed; and when we know that these mental marvels can be gathered and
trained for super-effort

work on any

scale

or

for creative

for going out

en-

upon expeditions of discovery, even

heart of things
things

tering into the secrets of life and the

when we note these we stand amazed at what might

But the mind of faith and courage will stand amazed only for a moment. Such a mind will resolve to master this wonder art at once for in

be done.

it

there

failure

power that never knew nor defeat a power that is

is

fully able to cast the

mountains of im-

possibility into the sea of oblivion.

[94]

"55

Larson, Christian &aa

BF

3 9097
Larson,
Christian

00274688

2
(1920)

Da

Concentration,

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